Though it was not on my radar as didn't fit in my schedule of the day but the name Brazil was a strong motivator
and I could somehow manage to catch the Brazil’s fight with Mexico post 30
minutes its start (12:30 AM India time, June 18).
And what a blissful experience it
was. In fact, it was a better extension of the ‘England Vs Italy’ match viewing
experience with Mexico
taking its game to higher level to become equal rival to the world’s most
beloved Soccer team, Brazil.
I am not Soccer fan but I love
the FIFA World Cup, more than the Cricket World Cup. This is how the brilliant 60
minutes of the Brazil Vs Mexico match unfolded (yes, with the combined 4
minutes of the extra time as well).
There were multiple rapid strikes
and attacks to the goalposts and both teams efficiently tried to outdo each
other but Mexico’s defense came out to be better and it was led by its
goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, the hero of the day, not just for Mexico, but for
the fans of the World Cup and Soccer, and he found respect from the rival of
the day as well, a well deserved one.
Even if I could not watch the
complete match, during the period I watched the match had four beautiful and
miraculous moves by Ochoa saving the Mexicans and frustrating the Brazilians
who could not score till last. The growing frustration was visible on the face of
Luiz Felipe Scolari, the Brazil
coach, as the match was nearing its end.
Both teams charged with the ball
multiple times and were able to keep the ball in other’s half, in the area of penalty
arc, for quite a significant time. In fact, I found Mexico
doing better here though Brazil
caught up later.
Mexico
attacked superbly and Ochoa proved a wall for Brazil
- an equal show - a fine game - a day of Mexico
indeed - Mexico equaled and were
better at times, frustrating Brazil,
leaving them goalless - a true world cup game.
Next
game in my prioritized list is Spain Vs Chile at 12:30 AM India time tomorrow. Spain, the defending
world champions, need to deliver and score a handsome victory in this match to bounce
back, to remain in the league, after their dismal show in the game against the
Dutch.
It’s
time for some good moments, some quality TV viewing time..
Enjoy
the game. You don't need to be a soccer expert for it. Football was never my
first love, yes, but the FIFA World Cup is different.
The
motion, the action, the crowds, all so volatile, all so paced up, like the
high-pitched notes of every type of foot-thumping music - its so charming, so
loving, so captivating.